Summary

The victims of TB have a reduced growth potential. In addition, victims of TB have reduced growth rate. The victims are likely to suffer more frequently from other health disordes than pigs with non-bitten tails. Tail biting was often preceded by leg disorders and followed by reduced appetite, which may be associated with reduced growth rate of victims of tail biting. The costs of TB were particularly heavy when medication was needed and when the fattening of the victims could not be continued as planned. As TB behaves like an epidemic, immediate response to tail biting is important to prevent further cases and economic damage.